Southbay Health I 2021 by Moon Tide Media

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DISPLAY UNTIL NOV 2021

Expert cancer care

TORRANCE MEMORIAL AND CEDARS-SINAI’S AFFILIATION BRINGS MORE EXPERT CANCER CARE TO THE SOUTH BAY. More access to Cedars-Sinai oncology specialists and programs located within Torrance Memorial. More patient beneﬁts from innovative cancer research to clinical trials. More expert care for our patients and the South Bay. Learn more at MoreCancerExperts.org

just got more experts

Left to right: Melanie Friedlander, MD, Paula Eboli, MD, David Chan, MD, Amirhossein Paymon Mahfoozi, MD

YOUR HEALTH. OUR MISSION.

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Darren Elms

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DEPUTY EDITORS

Thank You

hat a difference a year makes. While the pandemic is certainly still with us, signs are pointing to a steady recovery—thanks to vaccinations and continued safety efforts throughout the community. Businesses are open. Schools are in session. Summer looks to be much sunnier than the last. As we all breathe a collective exhale, let’s remember to thank the doctors, nurses, medical and mental health professionals, and all essential workers who carried us through the pandemic. No one knew where this crisis would take us. The early days proved chaotic, scary and full of unknowns. Yet these people showed up, day after day risking their lives to save or support ours. Their heroic efforts should never be forgotten. The next time you visit your doctor, your kid’s teacher, your grocer or a vaccination volunteer, please remember to thank them for their service. We’re not out of the woods yet, but the clearing never seemed closer or brighter.

Bonnie Graves (Food & Wine),

Director of Brand Partnerships

Kara Mickelson, Tanya Monaghan,

Erika Carrion

Jennie Nunn

310-897-2424 | erika@goldenstate.is

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Michele Garber, Amber Klinck, Kat Monk PHOTOGRAPHERS Siri Berting, J.P. Cordero, Kat Monk, Shane O’Donnell, Lauren Pressey

SOUTHBAY IS A DIVISION OF THE GOLDEN STATE COMPANY

MANAGING PARTNERS Charlie Koones

Todd Klawin

MARKETING & OPERATIONS Partner/Brand Publisher | Emily Stewart

—Darren Elms, Editor

Partner/Managing Director, Media & Analytics | Warren Schaffer Director of Digital | Charles Simmons Director of Film & Video | Bryce Lowe-White Operations Director | Allison Jeackjuntra Community Manager | Liesl Breuner Accounting | Janet De La Cruz, Margy Way To learn more about us, visit thegoldenstatecompany.com. No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from The Golden State Company, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any of The Golden State Company, LLC publications become the property of The Golden State Company, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit. SUBSCRIPTIONS Email: info@goldenstate.is or phone: 310-376-7800. Subscriptions are $29 per year. TO OUR READERS Southbay HEALTH welcomes your feedback. Please send letters to: Reader Response Department, Southbay HEALTH Please include your name, address and email. Edited letters may be published.

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THE YOUTH ADVOCATES Rani Crosby and Zachary Zawacki RELIEF MISSION Kelly Bloodgood MEDIA Eat, Drink and Be Merry SCIENCE AND MOBILITY Dr. Jeffrey Riepe A NEW MOTIVATION Hillary Lewis and Yaya Margarita TRAVEL Into the Woods

KEEP ON MOVING Ken Nies

ALSO IN GOOD HEALTH 24 Torrance Memorial Medical Center YOUR BEST SELF 41 South Bay businesses focused on health, wellness & beauty HEALTH CARE RESOURCE GUIDE 68 The South Bay’s top health care professionals and wellness leaders

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The Youth

Advocates STUDENT MEMBERS OF THE BEACH CITIES HEALTH DISTRICT’S YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL ADVOCATE FOR THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS OF THEIR SOUTH BAY PEERS. WRITTEN BY AMBER KLINCK | PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

ani Crosby is 15 years old and a high school sophomore. She’s also a third-year member of the Beach Cities Health District’s Youth Advisory Council. She first heard about the Youth Advisory Council when she was in eighth grade, and it piqued her interest. “I was told that it’s all about student input,” Rani says, “people my age being able to take charge and implement their ideas. I was really excited to be a part of something that wasn’t just completely run by adults, and that we’d get to use our voices.” When Zachary Zawacki was looking for a way to get involved in his community, contributing to the Youth Advisory Council seemed like an ideal fit. “It had everything that I was interested in,” he says. “When I was reading about what they do and what they’re all about—their overall goal—it was perfect for me. I’ve been with them over the past two years. Zachary now serves as one of two cochair leaders representing the council. “The main goal is to bring together youth perspectives from around the South Bay,” he explains. “We discuss different issues such as substance abuse and mental health.” Through volunteer work, student-led projects and public speaking engagements, members strive to raise awareness and offer solutions for the health issues affecting their peers. And their impact is growing. In 2018 there were 20 student members in the Youth Advisory Council; today there are more than 80. “The biggest thing I participated in started last year,” Rani says. “It was called the Photo Voice Campaign. We started by collecting photos in the Beach Cities of anything drug- or alcohol-related. The goal of the presentation was to showcase how often advertisements are pushed on people, whether they realize it or not. Seeing all the photos really shows you how often it comes up, whether it’s an ad in front of a restaurant or a smoke shop around a school.” The project not only gave the students a greater awareness of the influences around them; it also gave them an opportunity to share what they found with their local government. “We had a lot of different public speaking opportunities where we got to present our Photo Voice Presentation at city council meetings,” Rani notes.

“I personally have struggled with mental health issues, as have many of my friends. So I started an Instagram account where I would post different mental health conditions or misconceptions, with some resources to help people out.” SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

“The main goal is to bring together youth perspectives from around the South Bay. We discuss different issues such as substance abuse and mental health.”

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

Community service has been a part of Rani’s life since middle school. She was the president of a club that partnered with the Surfrider Foundation for a beach cleanup. From there she was introduced to their Teaching Test program, where she worked as the student lab director and collected water samples from different beaches in the South Bay. The samples were tested for bacteria caused by pollution, with the results later released to the public. “Seeing the data on how much bacteria [there was], it was really shocking,” Rani notes. But it also sparked her interest in environmental advocacy. Zachary’s desire to serve his community was initially inspired by his own family. “My mom’s sister is autistic,” he says. “From a young age, I’ve learned to be sympathetic and empathetic toward others because of her. I’ve been going to events with her and

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

her housemates for a long time.” In addition to advocating for the health of others, Rani and Zachary are mindful of their own mental and physical well-being. Zachary has been playing baseball since he was 2 years old. “My dad and all his brothers are huge Yankees fans,” he notes. Surfing has also been a big part of his life. “I do it any chance I get.” Rani has been committed to tennis since fifth grade. “It takes a lot of time and it can be hard to manage with school, but it’s really fun to be with the team,” she says. When it comes to finding balance, she reminds herself to take breaks and make time for herself—noting that her mental well-being is just as important as her physical health. “I personally have struggled with mental health issues, as have many of my friends,” she points out. “So I started an Instagram

account where I would post different mental health conditions or misconceptions, with some resources to help people out. It ended up getting attention from kids at my school who really liked it. I’ve had kids come up to me and tell me they love what I’m doing and to please keep posting, which is really inspiring and incredible.” With the help of the Youth Advisory Council, students like Rani and Zachary are making mental health a priority. They’re putting a spotlight on the negative influences targeting today’s youth, all while promoting the importance of staying physically active. These are lessons that will serve them throughout their lives. “I was lucky to come across [the Beach Cities Health District],” Zachary says. “And I’m super happy that I did because it ended up being everything I wanted and so much more.” ■

Our doctors are your neighbors. Local primary care for the whole family. Schedule your visit today. In-person and video visits available.

Book an appointment now 310-819-9553 uclahealth.org/south-bay

Manhattan Beach | Palos Verdes Redondo Beach | Torrance

L to R: Orthopedic surgeons Don Sanders, MD, John Andrawis, MD, Todd Shrader, MD

AT THE TOP OF THEIR GAME JOINT REPLACEMENT PATIENTS CHOOSE THE TORRANCE MEMORIAL LUNDQUIST ORTHOPEDIC INSTITUTE FOR HELP IN GETTING ON WITH THEIR LIVES. WRITTEN BY JOHN FERRARI | PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING

ummer is here. You should be at the top of your game, but that joint pain isn’t going away. In fact, it’s getting worse. Whether it’s rheumatoid arthritis, osteo-arthritis or a sports injury, it may be time to consider orthopedic surgery for a partial or total hip, knee or shoulder replacement. The good news is that joint replacement is one of the most successful and effective surgical procedures performed today, and the Torrance Memorial Lundquist Orthopedic Institute is at the forefront of advances in that field. Orthopedic surgeon Don Sanders, MD, helped pioneer the direct anterior approach for hip replacement surgery—a technique that leaves the muscle attachments intact, allowing patients to recover faster and more completely. First performed at Torrance Memorial in 2004, the technique now accounts for 80% of hip replacements at the hospital. Similarly, the subvastus approach for knee replacement surgery avoids cutting into the quadriceps, speeding patient recovery. Another even more recent innovation is robotic-assisted surgery. The Lundquist Orthopedic Institute started using the Mako Stryker robotic system last year to assist with knee replacement surgery. The robot doesn’t actually perform the surgery, but it allows surgeons to operate with greater precision—critical for achieving a successful total joint replacement, says Todd Shrader, MD, a joint replacement surgeon and sports medicine specialist. A third advancement—to anesthesia and pain blocks—helps patients get back on their feet as soon as possible. Local pain blocks, similar to epidurals, are administered before and during joint replacement surgery. Reducing pain and discomfort after surgery has a practical benefit. “Patients who get up sooner recover quicker,” explains orthopedic surgeon John Andrawis, MD. “They can usually have a physical therapist see them within a few hours of surgery.” “We’ve been at the forefront of pain management,” adds Dr. Shrader. “Patients wake up

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with very little to no pain. We want patients to walk the day they have the surgery. It lowers the chance of getting a blood clot. Plus it helps them go home [faster], and it’s much better to recover at home.” Most patients remain at Torrance Memorial overnight after joint replacement surgery, but some go home the next day or even the day of the surgery. Some patients—generally those younger than 70—may choose joint replacement surgery as an outpatient procedure. Getting back on her feet after a bilateral hip replacement was a priority for 47-year-old yoga instructor Jill Lynch. “My hips started bothering me more than five years ago,” she recalls. “I did every possible thing I could do ahead of time, but eventually I had to admit to myself that there was something wrong and the only option was surgery. I did some research beforehand, and given how important my hips are to my career, I knew I wanted the direct anterior approach. And I knew that Dr. Sanders was the best.” Jill was using a walker four hours after her surgery. Five days later she was walking without crutches, and after a month she and Dr. Sanders agreed she could resume her yoga work. “I feel fantastic,” she says. “I was in a lot of pain leading up to surgery. I feel like I have my life back.” Torrance Memorial’s goal is to give every patient the best experience and easiest recovery possible with an extensive pre-op process. “Our patients have a monthlong presurgical process,” Dr. Andrawis says. “The goal is to educate people what to expect, which allows them to be more successful in their recovery.” It’s no surprise that the Lundquist Orthopedic Institute has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation’s top centers for orthopedic surgery and has earned Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Blue Distinction Center designation for joint replacement and spine surgery. After all, Torrance Memorial patients like Jill don’t choose the Lundquist Orthopedic Institute just because it’s convenient; they choose it because it’s the best.

Hip replacement patient Jill Lynch

TORRANCE MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER 3330 LOMITA BLVD., TORRANCE 310-325-9110 TORRANCEMEMORIAL.ORG

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

relief

Mission AFTER A LYME DISEASE DIAGNOSIS, KELLY BLOODGOOD BRINGS LIFE-CHANGING THERAPIES TO THE SOUTH BAY. WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY KAT MONK

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

t 10 years old, Kelly Bloodgood was on an annual family camping trip to Montana when she felt an odd sensation on her stomach that would forever change her life. After years of misdiagnoses and massive frustration, she finally received a clear diagnosis and method for recovery. Kelly, raised in San Jose with four brothers, often spent her summer vacations in the latter half of the 1970s in a quintessential, pea-green, wood-paneled station wagon heading out on road trips to Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Washington, Oregon or Nevada. Having a high school teacher and football coach for a dad meant that summer camping trips were a common occurrence.

“Wellness is a lifestyle, not a trend.”

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

Kelly moved to the South Bay after attending Loyola Marymount University. She got married, taught English at Hermosa Valley and is now the mother of three children. She had a myriad of minor health issues over the years that were misunderstood and misdiagnosed. Thinking back on that childhood camping trip, Kelly vividly remembers the disgust she felt when she noticed a black-legged tick, also known as a deer tick, had latched on to her stomach. Quickly, her father ran over and smoldered the tick into submission with a match—the standard protocol at that time. The risk of acquiring Lyme disease from a tick is only 1.2% to 1.4%, even in areas where the disease is common. There are two ways to have a tick infect a host: first, by not taking the tick out properly, and second, when the tick becomes engorged. The infection lies dormant within the tick and only becomes active after exposure to warm blood entering its gut. To make room for the blood, the tick emits water through salivary glands and passes on the infection, known as Lyme disease. The disease was discovered in 1975 in Old Lyme, Connecticut. Early symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Without treatment, symptoms can progress—leading to arthritis with severe joint pain and swelling. There can be loss of muscle tone or drooping of the face, an irregular heartbeat and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. It is actually quite common for Lyme disease to remain undiagnosed for many years. Every year since that trip, Kelly would get a cold in the fall that would turn into a sinus infection, then bronchitis, ending with full-blown pneumonia by Christmas. All the while, she was unable to do ordinary tasks including going to her kids’ sporting events. Lyme disease loves a compromised immune system, and as she started to experience perimenopause—coupled with the stress of a rather straightforward divorce— the disease took a stronger hold on her body. “I started having a difficult time opening jars, and my car door became nearly impossible,” explains Kelly. Within a year, the joint pain and exhaustion became so excruciating and debilitating that most mornings she would have to crawl

across the floor just to get to the bathroom. “The memory loss, brain fog and numbness in my face and extremities was also incredibly difficult to handle,” adds Kelly. After her diagnosis, her doctor started her on a medical protocol that lasted for almost eight months—designed to boost her immune system by loading her up with large doses of antibiotics, supplements and injections. Determined to get better, she sought treatment not covered by her medical insurance plan, including holistic regimens. The only available locations for these treatments, such as infrared sauna, pressotherapy, red light and IV therapy, required a trek into the Greater Los Angeles area. Feeling rejuvenated, Kelly decided to start her own business as an alternative healing space. The treatments at Well+Good Health Studio in Hermosa Beach are designed to improve your health and quality of life within a relaxing spa environment—whether or not you have Lyme disease. In fact, anyone can benefit from these treatments, from elite athletes to the chronically ill. “Kelly has skillfully created a trusted and amazing community of wellness practitioners who bring health and healing to all who they encounter,” says Elizabeth Fong, whose daughter also has Lyme disease. How do these treatments help those with Lyme disease? First, the sauna pod uses infrared light to create heat in your body at a cellular level. In essence, you are warming up from the inside rather than the outside, which assists in pain relief and muscle recovery. Pressotherapy lymphatic drainage assists in unclogging the lymphatic system, leading to full-body detoxification and reducing inflammation. It uses compression to increase the blood and fluid circulation in your body. Finally, the red light therapy exposes your skin to low-wavelength red light and helps heal not just your skin but your muscle tissues as well. “Kelly is a pioneer, and one who generously shares the new technologies and treatments she’s discovered,” adds Elizabeth. “She is also one of the kindest, most openhearted people you’ll ever meet, so she has a way of naturally and easily making all who enter Well+Good feel like they are home.” Kelly’s battle will continue for the rest of her life, but her motto is: “Wellness is a lifestyle, not a trend.” ■

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

Eat, Drink AND Be Merry THOUGH UNQUESTIONABLY TRITE, OLD AXIOMS REMAIN TRUE. WHEN IT COMES TO HEALTH, YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT (AND DRINK) AND LAUGHTER REALLY IS THE BEST MEDICINE. HERE ARE A FEW READS TO NURTURE YOUR INNER AND OUTER WELL-BEING. EDITED BY MICHELE GARBER

Eat Better, Feel Better: My Recipes for Wellness and Healing, Inside and Out By Giada De Laurentiis After more than two decades on the go, Giada De Laurentiis’ whirlwind schedule finally caught up with her. The chef, restaurateur, TV personality, best-selling author and devoted single mom was working 24/7, cultivating her brand and constantly traveling the world. Finding time to exercise, eat well and get enough sleep was an afterthought. Like most, the health shortcuts she took with little consequence in her 20s and 30s caught up with her in her 40s. As she approached 50, her waning energy, weight gain and gradually declining health were a wake-up call. She reconfigured her diet and reprioritized exercise, self-care and sleep. In her 10th book, De Laurentiis shares her lifestyle tweaks as well as 100 recipes to help readers heal from the inside, find balance and restore wellness.

Quench: Beat Fatigue, Drop Weight, and Heal Your Body Through the New Science of Optimum Hydration By Dana Cohen, MD, & Gina Bria

How Y’all Doing?: Misadventures and Mischief from a Life Well Lived By Leslie Jordan

Lately we could all use a good laugh, which explains why Emmy-winning character actor Leslie Jordan has suddenly become an overnight sensation after delighting audiences in TV and film for more than three decades. His sidesplitting Instagram videos replete with his signature wry wit and bathed in his trademark Southern charm tickled countless funny bones, attracting more than 5 million followers. Ironically, when the sexagenarian learned that he’d “gone viral,” he didn’t know what “viral” meant—nor did he fully grasp how it would lead to global stardom. Now this self-proclaimed Southern Baptist celebutante brings his joie de vivre and quirky perspective to his fans in a collection of entertaining yet intimate personal essays. A seasoned raconteur, Jordan regales readers with observations and stories of his fascinating life. His prose is charmingly delivered in his quintessentially authentic, amusing and oft-irreverent voice, lifting our spirits and warming our hearts. HOME TO THE FINEST COLLECTION

Understanding and embracing the value of hydration is nothing new for a healthconscious person. Yet few realize the true importance fluids play in all of our vital bodily functions, or that simply drinking ample water is not always enough. Armed with groundbreaking new research into the field of hydration, integrative medicine specialist Dana Cohen, MD, and cultural anthropologist Gina Fria debunk the common myths on “getting enough water” while highlighting the myriad benefits of adding moisture to the body. They outline their innovative five-day hydration jump-start, offer nutrient-packed smoothies, elixirs and meal plans, and share their micro-movement approach to circulating water into the fascia—the connective tissue that hydrates our bodies.

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SCIENCE

and Mobility DR. JEFFREY RIEPE AND HIS TEAM AT MOVE LAB UTILIZE THE LATEST TECHNOLOGIES IN SPORTS SCIENCE TO REHABILITATE AND ENHANCE THE PERFORMANCE OF THEIR CLIENTS. WRITTEN BY AMBER KLINCK PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

or most of his life, sports and medicine have been parallel focal points for Jeffrey Riepe. He played football, ran track and weight-lifted competitively in his youth. With aspirations to go into medicine after recovering from a sports-related injury, a career in orthopedic surgery seemed a befitting path for the young athlete. But after working in sports medicine with the Minnesota Vikings, Jeff opted to go in another direction. “I’m an athletic trainer as well,” he notes. “I was originally thinking about orthopedic surgery up until I was 19. At that point I had torn my meniscus. It was so stupid, just a fluke accident on a warm-up squat that took me out of football. I came back my junior and senior year and then got an offer to play at my undergrad, but I turned it down to do athletic training instead.” His work with the Minnesota Vikings was an inspiring experience for Jeff—inspiring enough to alter the direction of his career. “I have a few family members who are doctors,” he notes. “They said if you really want to work with people and you’re already in the pro sports world, you might as well continue on the physical therapy track. You can always open your own practice and collaborate with

sports teams.” It was also during this period with the Vikings that Jeff became familiar with the work of physical therapist Dr. Chris Powers. “At the time, Adrian Peterson was rehabbing for his ACL,” Jeff says. “The sports medicine staff there utilized Chris to help him get back, and he was a really powerful resource.” While looking for physical therapy schools, Jeff seized the opportunity to study at the University of Southern California followed by a fellowship with Dr. Powers. “I did my doctorate in physical therapy at [USC],” he notes. “I graduated in 2018 and then completed a fellowship with Dr. Chris Powers in clinical and sports biomechanics.” It was during his time with Dr. Powers that Jeff saw firsthand the benefits of data-driven rehabilitation, contributing greatly to the opening of his practice, Move Lab. “What gets me passionate about what we do is what I learned from Chris,” Jeff explains. “You need to be able to objectively assess your current status and your progress. It provides a tool to the patient because it gives you peace of mind that you know exactly where you stand. For the practitioner, it allows us to have a steady baseline.” Jeff and his team not only gather relevant

data points for their clients; they put that information to work in a meaningful way. “We provide customized, data-driven solutions to provide peace of mind and pageturning results for our clients,” he says. Move Lab caters to patients recovering from an injury, competitive athletes looking to enhance their performance, and active individuals wanting to improve mobility and avoid future injury. Collecting data has become a health and fitness norm. The market is flooded with wearable devices that can tell you where you’ve gone and how many steps it took to get there. With the touch of a button, you can track your heart rate or open an app that analyzes the quality of your sleep. But how does having all this information lead to better health? “It’s hard to distinguish between the fluff and what’s actually meaningful,” Jeff explains. “Everybody can capture and collect data; it’s what you do with it that matters.” The Move Lab team includes strength and conditioning specialists with a background in professional sports and human performance. Utilizing their shared knowledge and broad network of professionals, they objectively assess data points for clients while giving

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

“Everybody can capture and collect data; it’s what you do with it that matters.”

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

them tools to understand what those data points mean and why they are important. For healthy athletes, data points can provide insight as to how to prevent future injuries. For more competitive athletes, data points can serve as benchmarks for what they need to be training toward. What makes Move Lab so unique is the continuity of care from rehabilitation to high performance. After working with college-level athletes and professional sports teams, transitioning from rehabilitation treatments to highperformance training was a model Jeff was familiar with and one he felt should be made available to the general public. “There’s a gap that needs to be bridged between straight rehab and high performance,” he says. Move Lab bridges that gap by combining rehabilitation, performance optimization and the latest sports science technology. Walking through Move Lab with Jeff feels like you’ve been given access to a training camp for the athletic elite. The equipment is all state-of-the-art—each piece designed to provide data on strength, balance and more. There’s even an antigravity treadmill for the postoperative athlete with weightbearing restrictions. “They can go jogging even if they can only bear 15% of their body weight,” Jeff explains. “There are a few benefits for doing this; range of motion is a big one. Let’s say they have a stress fracture. Light-loading below a certain percentage will actually accelerate bone healing. It’s causing there to be stress on the system—not enough to cause increased damage but enough to facilitate a growth response. So you get improved healing, better range of motion, cardiovascular benefits and general strength.” To aid clients with their nutritional goals, Jeff and his team collaborate with two sports dietitians. “We do resting metabolic rate testing—essentially the exact amount of calories per day that you burn, as well as your body’s preference toward burning carbs and fats,” he notes. That raw data is used to formulate a diet plan for Move Lab’s athletes based on their prospective goals. As his practice grows, so does Jeff’s ability to successfully cater to his clients. “Every patient is a data point,” he notes. “We can use our knowledge and our network to bring a lot of great minds and firepower to bear on prevalent issues like ACL tears and youth sports injuries.” Knowledge is power, and Dr. Jeffrey Riepe is using his to keep his athletes healthy, strong and injury-free. ■

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

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Summer is quickly approaching, and it is the perfect time to focus on our health, wellness and beauty. On following pages we are proud to highlight amazing South Bay businesses that specialize in helping you look, feel and be your BEST self.

your BEST self

COASTAL ANTI-AGING MEDICAL A private concierge medical practice— because traditional medicine isn’t always enough

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Customized nutritional IV therapy solutions and offerings

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Wellness, safe weight loss, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

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Anti-aging, functional & integrative medical solutions

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Double board-certified in internal & anti-aging medicine

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Traveling RAPID testing for COVID-19 safe events

23560 Madison St., Suite 204, Torrance drchongkim.com | 424-328-0203 | IG: Coastalantiagingmedical

BEAUTY AT THE BAY A beauty & wellness retreat

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Unique body sculpting: EmSculpt and EmSella

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Medical aesthetics: Botox, fillers, IPL

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Facials/medical facials/microdermabrasion/peels

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Natural wellness: IVs, colon hydrotherapy, yoga classes

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Beauty: brow laminating, lash extensions, waxing, microblading

831 N. Harbor Dr., Redondo Beach 424-383-1898 | beautyatthebay.com | IG: @beautyatthebayrb

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

your BEST self

MANHATTAN BEACH DENTAL CENTER Focused on the balance and esthetics of your smile.

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Integrative approach to oral health care & well-being

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Safe sedation options for maximum comfort

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Advanced laser treatments & painless procedures

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Expert smile makeovers

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Boost your confidence & self-esteem

1151 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310-376-0482 | manhattanbeachdentalcenter.com IG: @manhattanbeachdentalcenter

SHINE STUDIO Workouts that challenge & empower you to be your best self.

− Pilates, Sculpt, HIIT, Cardio Dance & more − Outdoor fitness events & workshops − All ages & fitness levels − Ideal location, easy parking − Inclusive community & safe environment

730 S. PCH, Ste. 105, Redondo Beach ShineStudioRB.com | 310-316-0997 | @ShineStudioRB

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

your BEST self

THE SKIN FAIRY tsf acne studio

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Personalized acne management program

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Focus on preteen, teen & adult acne

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Face & body acne treatments

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In-depth education & skin care coaching

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California Board licensed aestheticians

Sheila Hedlund, The Skin Fairy Chelsea Braden, LE 1700 S. Catalina Avenue, Suite 201, Redondo Beach 424-327-0454 | theskinfairy.com | IG: @the.skinfairy

VIBRANCY WELLNESS Integrative medicine: Start living vibrantly!

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East meets West holistic health care

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Functional medicine for optimal health

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Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine

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Digestion, stress, hormones, sleep, anxiety

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Individualized treatments to restore balance

Dr. Lissa Solis 727 2nd Street, #101, Hermosa Beach 310-779-1563 | vibrancylivewell.com | IG: @vibrancylivewell

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

your BEST self

OCEAN FITNESS One-on-one fitness training in a small private studio

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Exceptional certified personal trainers

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Newly renovated inside & out

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State-of-the-art equipment & free parking

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Reach fitness goals & stay healthy

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Healthy restaurants & beach within steps

3413 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach oceanfitness.us | 310-545-9952 IG: @oceanfitness.us | FB: Ocean Fitness PT MB

Highlight your business and let our community know how you can help them be their BEST self in the next issue of Southbay Health. Coming this fall! Contact jen@goldenstate.is.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

A New

motivation HILLARY LEWIS AND YAYA MARGARITA ARE TACKLING SOME OF THE STIGMAS AROUND FITNESS, AND THEY’RE HAVING A LOT OF FUN DOING IT. WRITTEN BY AMBER KLINCK | PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY

ance has always been a part of life for Hillary Lewis and Yaya Margarita. From a young age, dancing served as a source of inspiration for both of them, providing a sense of community and pushing them physically. It also, at times, created moments of self-doubt. In the world of dance, the size and shape of your body are often scrutinized as much as your ability. Today, however, Hillary and Yaya pride themselves on being champions of body positivity. With their Redondo Beach fitness studio Shine, they’ve created a space that offers something for everyone—inspired by their appreciation for dance. Hillary was 3 years old when she was introduced to ballet. “It turned into a passion I couldn’t live without,” she says. That passion led her to Loyola Marymount University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in dance with an emphasis in teaching and choreography. “I went on to work for Disney,” Hillary notes. Her final days at LMU consisted of mornings stacked with exams and all-night dance rehearsals at Disney. Next was a job on Holland America cruise line, and then eventually she moved to New York City to pursue an interest in musical theatre. Yaya also started dancing at a young age. “But I didn’t do the ballet/jazz route,” she says. “I went straight into Tahitian dancing and hula dancing.” In high school Yaya added jazz and lyrical to her training. In college she was on the dance team, and after school she joined a professional dance company. Then, following the advice of her mother who didn’t see dancing as a career, Yaya took a step back from dance. She transitioned into graphic design, and the change was a shock to her system. She went from working out six hours a day to sitting in front of a computer. “You gain weight and lose muscle mass and all that fun stuff,” Yaya explains. So she started doing graphic design on a freelance basis and began working parttime at a fitness studio, where she was introduced to the POUND workout. “I fell in love with the format,” Yaya says. “I lost 18 pounds in two months.” In addition to the weight loss, the highly rhythmic, music-based workout triggered

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

“From the beginning we’ve felt this body-positive movement, and I think there are even better ways to say it now, like body neutrality. We felt [driven] to have that as a part of our space because of our dance background.” something in Yaya. She was ready to bring dance back into her life. After her time in New York, Hillary returned to her California roots while also taking a step back from dance. “I didn’t know where I fit in, in L.A. anymore, in that scene, in the dance world,” Hillary says. She started teaching Beyoncé-style dance lessons just for fun. Yaya heard about the class through a friend, and when she and Hillary met, the two former dancers immediately hit it off. Their shared backgrounds in dance and fitness sparked a conversation on how to combine those passions. “We [wanted] to find the joy in working out. For us it’s music and movement—that’s what drives us,” Hillary says. “As dancers, we get bored really easily,” Yaya adds. “We can’t just be on the treadmill for an hour.” They wanted to create a space that merged fitness with dance—a workout that was both challenging and fun. “We also wanted it to be inclusive,” Yaya emphasizes. “As ex-dancers, the weigh-ins and the constant comparisons to other women’s bodies can be mentally tough. We wanted to make sure we opened up a space for everyone, no matter what their size or ability.” In October 2016, Shine Studio opened its doors. “From the beginning we’ve felt this body-positive movement, and I think there are even better ways to say it now, like body neutrality. We felt [driven] to have that as a part of our space because of our dance background,” Hillary says.

Both women are open about their individual journeys of self-discovery and coming to terms with the pressure they endured to maintain a certain body image as dancers. “There is still a lot of work to be done with body positivity and body acceptance,” Hillary says. “We felt like we needed to be champions of that, even if it meant we were still working on it within ourselves.” Part of the work includes changing the conversation around fitness and nutrition. There are certain things you won’t hear at Shine Studio. “We will never say ‘summer body’ or ‘burn off that pizza’ or ‘earn your mimosa’! You do not work out to eat; that is not the point of life. You eat to live, and you work out for health and longevity,” Hillary says. As moms, Hillary and Yaya are mindful of the conversations they have at home as well. “We have to show our kids that it’s not about bad food or good food; it’s how nourishing it is,” Yaya points out. “Like, ‘We’re eating from the earth today; let’s try that, buddy.’” Fitness is often viewed as a punishment for overindulgence or as a means to an end, like a smaller pant size or an upcoming weekend away. Hillary and Yaya want to change that. “Fitness is a journey. Health is a journey. Start now, do it now, feel good now,” says Hillary. “Put yourself out there and work out because it’s good for you. It’s not just about being a certain size or looking a certain way.” ■

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

Into the

Woods

SURRENDER TO NATURE AND REWARD YOUR SOUL WITH A RETREAT IN THE REDWOODS. WRITTEN BY DARREN ELMS

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

f tech created the insatiable need to stay connected to a frantic world, a refuge west of Silicon Valley invites you to unplug and connect right where you are. It’s a stark contrast, less than an hour from the headquarters of Apple and Facebook to the centuries-old redwoods that cradle Canyon Ranch at Woodside. Like a fairy tale it’s tempting—often unsettling—to disappear into the stillness and solitude of a digital-less world, even for a few days. But once you reemerge, the lessons could carry you for months or years to come. Canyon Ranch established a reputation for wellness four decades ago in Tucson and has since spread its services from as far as The Berkshires in Massachusetts to as near

as the Las Vegas Strip. But it’s the California property—a recent acquisition—that figures into this story. Located just beyond the town of Woodside, a 30-minute drive from SFO airport, this Canyon Ranch boasts forests that travel from the hills of the Peninsula to the Pacific coast. To heighten the experience, the property hosts several treehouse accommodations. These glass-clad rooms immerse you in a magnificent canopy of redwoods as you begin and end your day. While it would be easy to submerge in such a breathtaking living environment, the retreat journey beckons you to the main lodge. This three-story building hosts everything you’ll need outside your room

for the weekend. The first floor welcomes you to the lobby, where guest services will help with any additions or modifications to your itinerary. The gym hosts regular classes indoors, on the patio and at select locations throughout the grounds. Start your day with a Roll & Release to wake up any tired or stiff muscles. Yoga, tai chi and other fitness classes are offered throughout the day. Meditative practices like qigong, creative water drawing and forest bathing also figure into the daily offerings. Be sure to schedule an off-property hike, like the Djerassi Resident Artist Program Sculpture Hike, a magical three-hour adventure into the private woods donated by Carl

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

Djerassi, developer of the oral contraceptive pill. There you’ll find decades of artist installations nestled among the trees for the curious hiker to discover and enjoy. Also located on the first floor, the spa gives you the opportunity to nourish both the physical and spiritual being. Set up a soothing massage or invigorating facial inspired by sustainable NorCal ingredients. The resort also offers spiritual guidance and wellness coaching with its resident provider. Through open and nonjudgmental dialogue, you’ll be encouraged to connect with your personal mission or goals, allowing you to look to the future with optimism, awareness and clarity. Moving on to the next level, you’ll find your culinary destination for your entire stay: The Hearth. Chef Isabelle Jackson Nunes works with regenerative farmers and ranchers to source the best local and seasonal ingredients for her creations. She also presents meals driven by wellness philosophies including root-to-stem use of vegetables and fruits, meat raised by humane animal husbandry practices, and ingredients and beverages that respect and do not strain the region’s natural resources. The results are healthy and delicious—served with forest views should you choose to sit on the wraparound patio. Try the shakshuka for breakfast, then indulge in a gorgeous salad and seasonal catch for lunch. Finish the day with roasted artichokes and mushroom and rye panzanella for dinner, saving room for a tasty dessert and bottle of wine that you can keep handy during your stay at the adjacent Hideaway. The top level, known as The Loft, hosts yoga, drumming, and other fitness and creative classes in a large open space. The fireplace provides a gathering place for evening chats—many presented by outside guest speakers—on topics ranging from reconnection, mindfulness and forgiveness to living and working with purpose. Like the mighty redwood, conclude your Canyon Ranch experience stronger, taller and fully rooted in the world. After the year we’ve had, we can all learn from nature’s resilience. ■

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

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GAME CHANGER INSPIRED BY THE SPORT OF LACROSSE, TAYLOR RYAN FOSTERS HER ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT. WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY KAT MONK

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

akerspace is an extracurricular program within our elementary schools that caught the eye of Taylor Ryan. When Taylor was a student at Pacific Elementary, she attended as many scheduled sessions as she could during lunch. The program offers a hands-on empirical learning opportunity that gives students an opportunity to experience being inventors, builders and creators. Makerspace gives kids tools while showing them how to innovate and exercise creative art skills. “It was where I learned to bring my ideas to life,” shares Taylor. Determined from a young age to be her own boss, she strongly believes in the exploration of alternatives to what our current market has to offer. After learning how to bring her ideas to life, Taylor started to focus on her entrepreneurial business skills. The Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce sponsors a program called the Young Entrepreneur’s Academy (YEA). YEA is a groundbreaking after-school program that transforms students into confident entrepreneurs—offering them an opportunity to develop business ideas, write business plans, conduct market research and pitch their plans to a panel of investors. Taylor anxiously awaited the results of her interview with the chamber’s Kelly Stroman and was beyond excited to become an official member of YEA. Coming from an athletic family, Taylor started playing lacrosse in fifth grade. While playing the game, it is technically illegal for the defense to push out while holding their sticks sideways. According to Taylor, it can be quite painful to be hit across the chest with the stick. She noticed men had protection cups, but the market was void of protection for women except for outdated chest plates. Taylor, who lives by the motto “creative solutions for everyday problems,” decided she was going to manufacture this safety product. “She came to YEA with a problem she wanted to solve,” remembers Rachel Thomas, YEA instructor. “She wanted to

figure out a way to protect herself and girls like her while playing sports. It was fun to watch her research various ideas and see how her business idea morphed as she learned more about protective gear, manufacturing and the marketplace.” Taylor believes her product is essential for every female athlete because blunt force trauma that can occur from a blow to the chest almost always leads to internal bleeding and damage to the breast tissue. Rachel watched Taylor become more and more confident and accomplished as the program progressed. Amazed with the opportunities the program offered, Taylor was excited to meet the guest CEOs who came to their meetings to speak and was impressed with the business skills shared by lawyers, logo designers, mentors and other community volunteers. Students receive practical knowledge on how to become successful and effective business owners. “You go into the class a dreamer, and you leave as a CEO,” says Taylor. Now 15, Taylor owns her own business, Unstoppable Protective Gear, specializing in breast protection. The cup has a hard outer shell to take the initial hit and softer material inside for comfort. They are thin and durable and slip into any sports bra. “We are enormously proud of her determination to bring her product to market and are excited to be a part of her success,” shares Kelly. YEA hosted a local competition called the Saunders award. Taylor won with her company and was awarded the opportunity to

"Her vision is spot on, her mission is strategic and her drive is unstoppable."

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represent Manhattan Beach in the Saunders Scholars national competition in New York. Of 200 nationwide teens, Taylor was a finalist in the top eight. According to Taylor, there are an estimated 3½ million female athletes in high school, with approximately 40% of those athletes participating in contact sports. Depending on the particular study, 36% to 58% of female players have reported experiencing a contact breast injury during training or a game. “She is a perfect example of realizing a need, addressing a problem and taking action to improve it,” adds Kelly. “She wants every female athlete to feel comfortable, safe and confident while playing their aggressive sport. By feeling safe and confident, it will help each other excel in a competitive atmosphere. Her vision is spot on, her mission is strategic and her drive is unstoppable.” Currently a freshman at Mira Costa, Taylor wears her protective cups while she plays lacrosse, as does her older sister, Lauren, a junior. Friends have helped with the sizing for her prototype cups. Her first prototype, inspired by NFL football helmets, was made with a 3D printer, and hopefully soon she will be offering small, medium and large protective gear for women. Taylor’s plan is to launch a fundraising campaign through Indiegogo, an online crowdfunding site. She has set a goal to raise funds to begin manufacturing her prototypes for mass production. She firmly believes in the philosophy that the pain of hard work is better than the pain of regret, so she is working hard now in order to avoid regret in later life. She credits her parents for instilling this value and her sister for her theory of “delayed gratitude.” Rachel says of Taylor, “She is an ambitious young woman, and it has been exciting to see her continue to pursue her passion long after our program was over. With her skills and drive, she has a world of possibility before her.” The Makerspace program has only been in our local school system for a few years, and Taylor is on track to be one of the program’s first successful entrepreneurs. Don’t be surprised to see her furthering her business education at USC or Pepperdine— working on her entrepreneurial skills—in a few years. ■

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

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SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

Keep on

moving

KEN NIES ISN’T LETTING PARKINSON’S DISEASE DIMINISH HIS LUST FOR LIFE. WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY KAT MONK

ome rain or shine, Manhattan Beach resident Ken Nies tends his garden for at least an hour every day. Ken was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease eight years ago. Anyone who knows him will let you know that he still intends to live his life to the fullest. At age 80, he spends his days gardening, watching his grandkids play sports and rooting on his favorite professional teams. You can find him almost daily at the Manhattan Beach Country Club playing pickle ball, tennis or golf. Parkinson’s is a progressive, incurable disease marked by certain recognizable symptoms—including slow movement, stiffness in the limbs, uncontrollable shaking or tremors, lack of coordination and speaking difficulties. The symptoms manifest differently into a few stages, and everyone has a unique set of circumstances and symptoms. Essentially, each patient experiences Parkinson’s differently. Fortunately for Ken, he is right-handed and the disease impacts the left side of his body. With great pride, Ken has mastered a recipe of success for his flower and vegetable gardens. The process starts with a seasonal system of germinating and growing seedlings under grow lights—fluorescent lights with a wavelength that plants need once they sprout. He cultivates his soil with earthworms and liquidated compost. Earthworms help increase the amount of air and water that gets into the soil. As they shred, mix and defecate, it turns the soil— helping the organic matter from the top mix in naturally. The final product is a spectacular garden with a bevy of breathtaking ranunculus, roses and vegetables. It is where Ken sometimes takes the opportunity to partake in a cigar while listening to an audiobook. This type of dedication is part of Ken’s DNA. At a very young age, he knew he would be a doctor one day. Not only was his dad a doctor but also his two older brothers. After medical school, he trained at the University of Southern California and began his medical career at the University of California, Los Angeles. Without hesitation he will tell you that if the two schools are competing, he cheers for the Bruins. Sorry, Trojans.

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Ken opened the Arthritis Treatment Center in Torrance in 1982 with a couple other physicians. In 2008 he retired so he could travel throughout his golden years with his lovely partner of 28 years, Wanda Maureen Miller. Maureen was an English professor at El Camino for almost 30 years and wrote several textbooks. More recently she has released two books—Last Trip Home: A Story of an Arkansas Farm Girl and Madeleine: Last French Casquette Bride in New Orleans. Ken and Maureen are quite the pickle ball team. Together they have traveled to many places including the Galapagos Islands, Cuba and a cruise through the Panama Canal. Ken’s career allowed him a flexible schedule while raising two children, Corin and Tanya. One of Ken’s highlights was the ability to coach and watch his son play sports. Corin is proud of his dad and shares that, in addition to being a great doctor and father, he is also a compassionate person and a great coach.

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

On one occasion, when Corin was 12, Ken coached his Pioneer Little League baseball game at Polliwog Park. As Corin remembers it, the sun was setting just behind the baseball field when the catcher on his team took his face mask off as a runner was heading home. The ball was thrown to home plate, and the catcher got hit directly in the mouth by the ball. “His teeth exploded all over home plate and in the surrounding dirt,” recalls Corin. “My dad didn’t hesitate to run out to home plate. Not only did he care for the catcher, but perhaps more importantly he ran out and collected all of my teammate’s teeth so that his teeth could be transported with him to the ER.” It should not be surprising that Ken is not just a kindhearted doctor, but he is also a very competitive person. When Corin was a freshman at Mira Costa, he once played in a basketball game at Morningside High School where Ken was the only Mira Costa

fan in attendance. “Despite being on another team’s home court and despite being the only fan on our side, he managed to yell at the referees enough to get our team a technical foul,” recalls Corin. “That was a special moment that only a fervently competitive person could have achieved.” The people closest to Ken will tell you that he is talented at most everything he does. At first look you might think he is a bit frail, but don’t be fooled. Ken is a born athlete and could probably kick your butt in most sports—although he is modest to the core. He is fully aware that his ability to keep this disease at bay requires staying active. He must be up and about each day so Parkinson’s does not get the upper hand over the control of his body. In the garden or on the court, Ken’s making the most of a rich and hard-earned life. ■

Getting rid of your frown lines is no different than getting your nails done. Treat yourself!

Am I being vain?

Laser & Injection Treatments Since 2004 310-373-5000 | WWW.CELIBRE.COM | TORRANCE, CA

discover southbay on instagram @OURSOUTHBAY

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

THE SOUTH BAY’S TOP HEALTH PROFESSIONALS A RESOURCE GUIDE FOR YOUR HEALTHIEST LIFE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY J.P. CORDERO & SHANE O'DONNELL

USC EPSTEIN FAMILY CENTER FOR SPORTS MEDICINE AT KECK MEDICINE OF USC

UCLA HEALTH DIGESTIVE DISEASES

76 78

LUXFORD NUTRITION EMILY LUXFORD

CENTER FOR REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH & GYNECOLOGY DR. SAM NAJMABADI

SUMMER ORTHODONTICS DR. SUMMER L. BLAKE

BITA DAVOODIAN, DDS, INC. DR. BITA DAVOODIAN

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

USC EPSTEIN FAMILY CENTER FOR SPORTS MEDICINE AT KECK MEDICINE OF USC 555 N. Nash St., Suite B, El Segundo | 800-USC-CARE | KeckMedicine.org/toyotacenter

SERVICES OFFERED

SPORTS MEDICINE

• • • • • •

We treat sports-related and recreational injuries of the shoulder, knee, hip, elbow, neck and spine. While we are the official doctors of the Los Angeles Kings hockey team and USC intercollegiate athletes, we treat every patient with exceptional, personalized care. We provide a full range of operative and nonoperative services in a state-of-the-art facility in the South Bay at the Toyota Sports Performance Center. We aim to provide a seamless experience through diagnosis, treatment and recovery with a focus on minimizing the anxiety and pain often associated with musculoskeletal injury.

Sports medicine Orthopaedic surgery Interventional spine care Musculoskeletal urgent care Regenerative medicine Physical therapy and rehabilitation

“We treat every patient with exceptional, personalized care.”

Frank Petrigliano, MD

PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY Our team prescribes individualized rehabilitation programs that utilize best-in-class performance technology including 3D motion tracking, biomechanical force plate analysis and digital accelerometry to optimize return-toplay and prevent future injury.

Alexander E. Weber, MD

TREATMENT PHILOSOPHY The most successful outcomes are achieved by treating the whole patient. In addition to physical factors, there are often social, emotional and psychologic elements that can influence a patient’s recovery from an injury. When an individual cannot participate in an activity they love or a sport that defines their career, they may experience tremendous stress and anxiety. We work to make our patients feel confident in their care—a powerful force in recovery.

SOUTHBAY HEALTH I 2021

Gene Tekmyster, DO

TOP TIPS

YOUR VISIT

Many of us have curtailed our normal workouts due to restrictions resulting from the pandemic. We recommend staying active however possible—going for long walks or a jog, bike riding and even getting in the ocean for a swim. It is a great time to focus on recovery and mindfulness. Take an online yoga or meditation class and spend 10 minutes at the end of your day stretching and doing breathwork. These practices will improve your fitness and your mood.

Our physicians are available for both in-person and telemedicine appointments, and appropriate referrals and prescriptions are provided via our online remote system. For in-person appointments, our safety protocols are rigorous and include masking, physical distancing, COVID-19 screening, and frequent cleaning and sterilization of the clinic offices and exam rooms. We offer walk-in services for patients requiring urgent attention—no appointment needed!

LUXFORD NUTRITION EMILY LUXFORD, MS, RD, IFNCP, CLT Redondo Beach | 424-247-6060 | LuxfordNutrition.com

SERVICES OFFERED

A SENSE OF WELL-BEING

• • • • • • • • • •

I am a dietitian working with women who struggle with post-COVID-19 symptoms including fatigue, brain fog, ongoing loss of taste and smell, digestive distress and insomnia. I also help women with chronic inflammation related to autoimmune conditions and digestive disorders. My clients achieve improved energy, mental clarity, balanced moods, resolution of IBS and bloating, and a renewed sense of well-being.

Post-COVID-19 recovery Digestive distress Autoimmune solutions Women’s health expert Chronic fatigue Brain fog Anxiety and mood swings Inflammation Irritable bowel syndrome Unwanted weight gain

“Food can be an extremely powerful health tool under the direction of a registered dietitian.”

WISE WORDS Hippocrates once said, “Let food be thy medicine.” Nutrition is often overlooked as a treatment modality, but food can be an extremely powerful health tool under the direction of a registered dietitian.

“My health when I started with Emily was unpredictable, frustrating and difficult to manage: diarrhea, upper GI discomfort, headaches, joint pain, exhaustion and depression. The changes due to Emily’s program are vast and innumerable: improved energy, better sleep, predictable bowel movements, easier and less painful periods, less joint pain. The acid reflux, bloating and headaches are gone. I’m a new person!” – Ashley H.

TREATMENT PHILOSOPHY Experience has taught me that research and medical expertise can resolve health issues

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CONVENIENT CARE As an integrative and functional practitioner, I offer my patients specialized laboratory tests that can be completed in the comfort of their home. These tests provide valuable information and result in personalized treatment plans. In addition, my practice is virtual, which is more convenient for the patient while maintaining quality of care.

THE POWER OF NUTRITION

PATIENT TESTIMONIAL

when the practitioner listens to the patient. Only the patient knows what she is feeling or experiencing. It is my philosophy to listen to the patient and implement a plan that addresses her symptoms and is conducive to her lifestyle, current health status and health goals.

I have worked in the nutrition field for over 10 years. As a young adult, I was diagnosed with celiac disease and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis— both autoimmune conditions. These diagnoses taught me the role of nutrition as a health intervention. This personal experience led me to a career in dietetics and additional credentials in integrative and functional nutrition therapy.

SUMMER ORTHODONTICS SUMMER L. BLAKE, DDS, MS 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Suite D-224, Manhattan Beach | 310-545-0770 | summerorthodontics.com

SERVICES OFFERED

EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCE

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At Summer Orthodontics, exceptional results with an outstanding patient experience is our top priority. Every treatment plan is carefully considered to meet the individual goals of our patients. I have built my reputation focusing on the best interest of each patient. As a result, I have been named the “Best Orthodontist” by the Daily Breeze for the last two years and “Best of the Beach” for orthodontists in the Easy Reader poll over the last four years. In addition, I have surrounded myself with a warm and friendly team of dedicated professionals to efficiently support patients throughout the treatment process. Nothing makes us happier than seeing our patients complete their treatment with smiles they are proud to show off!

Traditional braces Invisalign Lingual braces Accelerated treatment

“Creating beautiful smiles that patients love is tremendously rewarding.”

ADVANCES IN ORTHODONTICS Summer Orthodontics embraces proven technologies as a central focus of the patient experience. There have been many advances in orthodontics over the years to increase patient comfort, reduce treatment times and produce beautiful smiles. The adoption of digital technologies such as scans and radiographs makes the diagnosis and treatment process more efficient than ever. We are always on the lookout for new technologies and ways to keep our patients engaged throughout treatment.

THE SOUTH BAY LIFESTYLE BEAUTIFUL SMILES Creating beautiful smiles that patients love is tremendously rewarding. I love that our practice delivers children and adults smiles they love. It is so fun to see patients complete treatment, and they cannot stop smiling because they have fallen in love with their new smile.

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Although I love my practice and the rewards it provides, the most joy in my life comes from my husband, Matt, and our four children: Ahnika, 13, Tegan, 10, Briggs, 7, and Winslow, 4. My family means the world to me. I cherish every moment as they grow. I just wish time didn’t go by so fast! When I am not in the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and taking advantage of the California sunshine with outdoor activities. Our entire family loves the beach and spending hours in the ocean and on the sand. As a health advocate, diet and exercise are a top priority, and I love preparing healthy meals for my family. I also enjoy the variety of fitness classes available in the South Bay

UCLA HEALTH DIGESTIVE DISEASES 2780 Skypark Drive, Suite 125, Torrance | 310-530-8013 | uclahealth.org/torrance

SERVICES OFFERED

DIGESTIVE DISEASE

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Chun X. Hsu, MD: Gastroenterologists treat a variety of disorders involving the gastrointestinal tract. These include upper GI tract diseases such as acid reflux, stomach ulcers and celiac disease, as well as lower GI tract disorders such as constipation, diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Gastroenterologists also evaluate liver diseases, such as fatty liver and hepatitis, and evaluate and treat biliary and pancreatic disorders, including pancreatitis and pancreatic cysts. We perform a range of GI procedures, including upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy.

Digestive disorder treatment Nutrition program Clinical trials and studies Colorectal cancer screening Endoscopy and colonoscopy Hepatology

“Take time every day to focus on yourself.”

GUT HEALTH Nimah Ather, MD: There are many everyday things, both dietary and non-dietary, that patients can do to support good gut health. Try to manage stress, get enough sleep, drink plenty of water and consistently exercise. Eat a plant-based diet that is high in fiber, without too many processed foods that contain excessive fat or sugar. Take time every day to focus on yourself, realizing that almost everything is OK in moderation.

HEALTH TIP Kavya M. Reddy, MD: Heartburn is a common problem caused by regurgitation of stomach acid into the esophagus—the swallowing tube that connects the mouth and the stomach.

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Heartburn can often be eliminated by avoiding triggers, such as smoking, alcohol, excessive caffeine, meals within three hours of bedtime and carbonated beverages. It’s important to treat heartburn to prevent complications such as inflammation in the esophagus (esophagitis), narrowing in the esophagus (strictures), Barrett’s esophagus, which refers to precancerous changes, and esophageal cancer.

PREVENTIVE SCREENINGS Didi Mwengela, MD: It’s important for patients to start preventive colorectal cancer screenings at the appropriate time. While the age to start screening depends on personal and family history, most patients should start talking to their doctors about this at age 45. Finding and removing precancerous polyps during a colonoscopy can help prevent colon cancer. Your doctor can prevent colon cancer by finding and removing precancerous polyps during a colonoscopy. Colorectal cancer screening can also improve outcomes by identifying cancer at an earlier stage, when it is treatable.

CALMING CARE Melissa Munsell, MD: If a patient is anxious about the bowel preparation for a colonoscopy, we discuss different bowel prep medications available and help choose the best fit for them. If they are anxious about the actual procedure, I remind them that colonoscopy is a safe and effective test when performed by a trained gastroenterologist, and that a sedative is used to make sure they’re comfortable throughout the procedure. My patients often tell me that the entire process was easier than they expected. They feel accomplished when they’re finished and at ease because they’ve taken this important step to support their health.

CENTER FOR REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH & GYNECOLOGY SAM NAJMABADI, MD 99 La Cienega Blvd., Suite 109, Beverly Hills | 310-360-7584 | reproductive.org

SERVICES OFFERED

TOP CARE

MEDICAL CARE IN MEXICO

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The Center for Reproductive Health & Gynecology provides patients with comprehensive fertility treatments at our offices in Beverly Hills, Sherman Oaks and Punta Mita, Mexico. We have the best equipment in our labs to provide the highest level of care. We also provide state-ofthe-art treatment options not available in most clinics, like PRP ovarian rejuvenation and fertility IV therapy. Our success rates are some of the highest in the United States.

We started our Punta Mita Hospital to provide quality health care that the local community was lacking—and at an affordable cost. We offer numerous treatments to patients willing to participate in medical tourism and who can’t afford the treatments in their home country. Our hospital and fertility center has the highest technology of any center in Mexico.

In vitro fertilization Ovarian rejuvenation PRP Noninvasive PGT Fertility IV therapy Egg & embryo freezing Natural incubation IVF Fertility workups Egg donation Surrogacy PGD

When you’re ready to conceive, your body requires a precise blend of nutrients in order to protect the health of your internal environment. If you’re unknowingly deficient in certain vitamins, you can suffer from unexplained infertility, implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage. We have found success with our fertility infusion IVs by sending vital nutrients you need directly into your bloodstream.

“Our success rates are some of the highest in the United States.”

FOCUS ON PHILANTHROPY

TREATMENT PHILOSOPHY I believe my patients should have a personalized fertility plan, and it is our mission to help them understand their treatment options in terms that make sense to them. My goal every day is to provide the highest personalized care in a comfortable environment with the best technology available.

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FERTILITY IV THERAPY

We have a foundation in the United States and in Mexico where we fund health care for the less fortunate local community. The foundation has provided medical care to people who could not afford treatment and has already saved the lives of many people.

CAREER CHOICE The journey to become a doctor was not a natural one for me, even though many of my family members are doctors. I was looking at numerous other fields, but I always came back to medicine as it seemed interesting, I liked science, and the idea of taking care of people was appealing. As the father of two boys, I know the joys children can bring into your life; I enjoy helping other families achieve the same dream.

BITA DAVOODIAN, DDS, INC. DR. BITA DAVOODIAN 1959 Kingsdale Ave., Suite 202, Redondo Beach | 310-793-1000 | drdavoodian.com

SERVICES OFFERED

AT YOUR SERVICE

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As the saying goes, “It takes a village.” Behind every dentist is a dedicated team of assistants, patient coordinators, surgeons and specialists helping provide the service and care our patients need. We are thankful to have the opportunity to help the community and help people live healthier lives. Our team members would be glad to answer any questions you have about the services we provide.

Preventive dental care Cosmetic dentistry Invisalign® Whitening Children’s dentistry Sleep apnea TMJ disorder Implants

BEFORE & AFTER

“We are thankful to have the opportunity to help the community and help people live healthier lives.”

This patient had an old crown and bondings on adjacent teeth that were chipped and discolored. She loved the shape of her own teeth but wanted them symmetrical, aligned and white. This was achieved with custom-shade porcelain veneers.

PATIENT FEEDBACK The best feedback I have received was from an 8-year-old patient when she told me that the procedure was so gentle and she did not feel a thing. She said she had found her new dentist and she couldn’t wait to come back because she loved being in my office. It was so rewarding to have such a young patient enthusiastic about the health of her teeth and visiting a dentist—especially after hearing later about her unpleasant dental experiences in the past.

SHARED TIP Teeth can be affected by discoloration, spaces, gaps, chips and misalignment. A conservative way to repair any of these problems is bond and/or enamel shaping. This technique has been used for many years and can enhance aesthetics of teeth. Advances in cosmetic

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dental bonding procedures have led to improved strength and durability. No anesthesia is required when shaping the enamel, and results can be seen immediately. Enamel shaping is usually an option when there is only a minimal amount of discrepancy that needs to be corrected. Be aware that enamel shaping and bonding can’t solve all problems.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCT Invisalign is a series of clear, BPA-free plastic trays that many patients prefer instead of traditional braces. Instead of being cemented to your teeth, Invisalign trays are easily removable when you eat, drink, brush and floss. Once you are ready to begin, we will take photos and X-rays and scan your teeth using the latest in digital scanning: the iTero® Element. No need for gooey and messy impressions. A digital model of your teeth is immediately uploaded onto the Invisalign site, and treatment planning can start right away.

"Scar tissue is stronger than regular tissue. Realize the strength, move on." — Henry Rollins

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te a m o f m u l t i - d i s c i p l i n a r y e x p e r t s o ff e r s o n e o f t h e m o s t advanced, comprehensive, and minimally invasive orthopedic care programs in Souther n Califor nia, including Mako® robotic arm-assisted technology. We have the expertise and the experience with three times the number of orthopedic cases than any other hospital in the South Bay.* We'll help you get back to doing what you love faster and healthier. Lear n more TorranceMemorial.org/Ortho

Do More of What Moves You

"I was in a lot of pain leading up my life back." LUNDQUIST ORTHOPEDIC INSTITUTE

*Reﬂects inpatient cases reported to the Oﬃce of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) 2019 data.

- Jill Lynch, Yoga Instructor & Bilateral Hip Replacement Patient